Bahrain Backs GCC-Malaysia and GCC-ASEAN Free Trade Agreements in Kuala Lumpur
HRH Prince Salman and Malaysian Prime Minister Witness Signing of Major Agreements
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, met with Yang Amat Berhormat Dato' Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, during his official visit to Malaysia.
At the outset of the meeting, HRH Prince Salman conveyed the greetings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to the Malaysian Prime Minister, who reciprocated with warm regards for His Majesty the King.
Strategic Cooperation Across Key Sectors
HRH Prince Salman emphasised Bahrain’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Malaysia and advancing collaboration across a wide range of sectors. He highlighted the strong ties between both nations and the mutual aspirations that drive bilateral cooperation.
The leaders discussed regional and international developments, reaffirming the importance of enhancing strategic dialogue and fostering joint efforts that serve the interests of both countries.
Signing of Landmark Agreements
The meeting culminated in the signing and exchange of several key agreements and memoranda of understanding, aimed at boosting political, economic, academic, and industrial cooperation:
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Political Consultation Mechanism
An MoU between Bahrain and Malaysia establishing a formal framework for political consultations, signed by Foreign Ministers Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani and Dato' Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hasan. -
Civil Service HR Cooperation
An MoU on human resource development in civil services, signed by Bahrain's Foreign Minister and the Director-General of Malaysia’s Public Service Department. -
Chamber of Commerce Collaboration
A partnership between the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MCCI), aimed at strengthening trade relations. -
Academic Exchange and Research
A collaborative agreement between the University of Bahrain and Universiti Sains Malaysia to promote academic cooperation, including exchange programs and joint initiatives. -
Data Sovereignty Agreement
An announcement granting Malaysia sovereignty over subscriber data held by Malaysian companies in Bahraini cloud computing centers. -
Sea-to-Air Logistics Partner Status
Bahrain granted sea-to-air partner services status to Malaysia, enhancing logistics and trade flows between the two nations. -
Industrial Park Development
An MoU on the joint development and promotion of industrial parks, signed by Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy and Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry.
Support for GCC-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement
HRH Prince Salman reaffirmed Bahrain’s full support for a Free Trade Agreement between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Malaysia, as well as a broader GCC-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, noting its potential to boost trade, attract investments, and promote sustainable development.
Focus on Regional Summits
HRH also highlighted the importance of the upcoming Second ASEAN-GCC Summit and the inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, both hosted by Malaysia. He extended his best wishes for their success, describing them as pivotal platforms for enhancing regional cooperation and fostering strategic partnerships between the Gulf and Southeast Asia.
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